Societies expectations and traditional gender roles have become the reason as to why men are less likely to search for help regarding their mental health issues or concerns. Over recent years light has been shed over gender stereotypes about women aided by the feminist movement. But it is important to understand that men can be equally harmed by stereotypes and expectations too.

As a society founded upon powerful men, we often expect them to be the breadwinners and to be strong, dominant and in control. While these are not necessarily bad things, they make it harder for men to reach out for help and open up, as showing a struggle can be perceived as a weakness.

From research on early socialisation in a male’s life, these stereotypes that we perpetuate not only make it difficult for men to openly speak about their emotions but also make them less able to recognise symptoms of mental illnesses within themselves.

In reality, the amount of men suffering with mental health conditions is likely to be far higher than statistics suggest. This is because symptoms/signs of mental health issues go unnoticed, therefore leaving thousands of men undiagnosed and suffering in silence. According to mental health charities, men’s mental health is in a silent crisis; where common warning signs are often missed, and nobody realises there is a problem until it is too late.

In 2017, nearly 6000 suicides were recorded in Great Britain. Of these, 75% were men, of which 15% were in London. Suicide is the largest cause of death for men under 50 and under 35. 

This issue affects all men dealing with the lables and sterotypes handed to them through socitey, however the higher rates of suicide have been mostly found in minority communities. This including gay men, war veterans, and those with low incomes. This may be because they experience lots of well-known risk factors for suicide: socioeconomic hardship, unemployment, relationship breakdown and lack of social support.

As men struggle to discuss their problems, they are also more likely to use potentially harmful coping methods as a replacement, such as drugs or alcohol. This damages relationships and furthers mental health deterioration.

If you are in need of support or feel like furthering your understanding on this issue, please contact these organisations:

  • CALM
  • Samaritans
  • Men's Health Forum